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Audacy Announces the promotion of Matt Cahill to brand manager of The Team 980 (WTEM-AM) in Washington D.C. In this role, Cahill will oversee the station’s content strategy, talent, operations and branding. He will continue to serve as assistant brand manager of 106.7 The Fan (WJFK-FM) and executive morning show producer. “Matt’s creativity, love for sports and commitment to evolving the brand makes me confident that he will be a great brand manager for The Team,” said Ivy Savoy-Smith, SVP / MM, Audacy Washington D.C. “Those that have worked with Matt know his dedication to creating a positive working environment and we’re excited to see how he leads the internal team while increasing external traffic for the station.” “I’m absolutely thrilled to lead Team 980 into the future with our outstanding group. The Team has a storied history and to be given this opportunity is humbling,” said Cahill. “I’m very thankful for the guidance and trust that Chris Kinard and Ivy Savoy-Smith have given me. We have great on-air talent talking about issues that matter to D.C. sports fans, and the potential for The Team 980 brand is unlimited.”  Cahill was named assistant brand manager of 106.7 The Fan (WJFK-FM) in 2019 and took on the same responsibilities for The Team 980 in 2021. He has also served as EP of 106.7 The Fan’s “The Sports Junkies” morning show since 2012. Cahill began his radio career at CBS Radio Phoenix in 2006 before joining WJFK-FM as a Producer in 2007.

Beasley Media Group announces the appointment of AJ Lurie as vice president and cluster manager of the company’s New Jersey-based radio properties. Lurie, who also works with Beasley’s Fort Myers radio stations, will lead a diverse portfolio of stations across New Jersey, including WDHA-FM, WMGQ-FM, WCTC-AM, WRAT-FM, WMTR-AM and WJRZ-FM.  Prior to managing Beasley’s Fort Myers market, Lurie served as the director of local market integrated partnerships, where he played a key role in fostering strategic collaborations and increasing revenue opportunities across the company. Lurie also served as MM of Beasley’s Wilmington, Delaware radio property, WJBR-FM, and contributed to the sales development of Beasley Esports. He began his career as an account executive at Beasley’s Southwest Florida cluster.  “AJ’s proven experience, ability to drive results and commitment to localism made him the perfect choice to lead our New Jersey cluster into the future,” said Beasley Media Group COO and EVP, Brian Beasley.  “I look forward to working alongside the talented team in New Jersey to build on their success and continue delivering exceptional results for our listeners, advertisers, and communities,” said Lurie. “I am honored to follow in the footsteps of Dan Finn, whose legacy of excellence has set a high bar for all of us.”  He succeeds Dan Finn, who will officially retire from Beasley at the end of March 2025 after a distinguished career in broadcasting.

Audacy has announced a series of programming updates for WEEI-FM/AM in Boston. The station debuts a new afternoon show, welcoming three-time NFL champion Ted Johnson as afternoon show co-host alongside Andy Hart and Nick “Fitzy” Stevens, who is expanding his role. The trio will be heard on weekdays from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm ET beginning January 21. Johnson will also co-host “WEEI Football Sunday’” with Christian Arcand, Meghan Ottolini, Chris Scheim, Tom E. Curran, Stevens, Hart and Jermaine Wiggins during the NFL season. Former afternoon show co-host Christian Arcand will host nights weekdays from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm ET.

“Ted not only hoisted the Vince Lombardi trophy three times as a Patriot, but he also played alongside new Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel,” said Mike Thomas, SVP/MM, Audacy Boston. “After his playing days, Ted honed his broadcasting skills in Houston and back here in Boston. He has entertaining stories and valuable information that all Boston sports fans won’t want to miss. Fitzy has been an asset to the station and we’re excited to expand his role to ‘WEEI Afternoons’ with his knowledge as a die-hard Boston sports fan.”

“I had the good fortune of playing on some incredible teams in my 10-year career, and now, 30 years later, I’m thrilled to announce I’ll be a part of another great team at WEEI,” said Johnson. “I’ll never take for granted the relationships I’ve formed and the awesome experiences I’ve shared with the fans here, and I look forward to strengthening those connections through the WEEI airwaves. I appreciate the unique opportunity Mike Thomas, Mark Hannon, Jeff Sottolano and Ken Laird have given me. I look forward to talking to y’all soon!”

The new WEEI weekday programming lineup is as follows:

6:00 – 10:00 am ET: “Greg Hill Morning Show”

10:00 am – 2:00 pm ET: “Jones & Keefe”

2:00 – 6:00 pm ET: “WEEI Afternoons”

6:00 – 10:00 pm. ET: “Christian Arcand”

Johnson joins WEEI after serving as an on-air host for 98.5 The Sports Hub since 2018. Upon his retirement from the NFL in 2005, he began his professional media career at CBS Boston doing pre- and postgame shows for the Patriots. Stevens is a Massachusetts native with a passion for Boston sports. He joined WEEI in the summer of 2019 and has hosted shows across every daypart at the station, including “The 6 Rings Postgame Show” with Hart after every Patriots game.

Brian Lawlor, president, Scripps Sports, has been named the recipient of the Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA) 2025 Golden Mic Award, to be presented at the annual black-tie fundraiser on Monday, March 10 at the Plaza Hotel in New York City. The BFOA is the only charity devoted exclusively to helping broadcasters in need from illness or tragedy…..Veteran broadcaster Michelle Jerson‘s weekly one-hour travel/parenting program “Passport Mommy” has been added to WPHT,Philadelphia on Saturdays at 12:00 noon.  The informational and entertaining show is distributed by Radio America.Stations interested can contact Jennifer Dedes at Radio America: jdedes@radioameria.com…..iHeartMedia announced (1/13) the latest podcast programming for iHeart Women’s Sports. Eight new shows will launch on the network in early 2025 featuring renowned female athletes like Ashlyn Harris, Mel Reid, Lexie Brown and more. The new expanded lineup further emphasizes iHeartMedia’s stated commitment to bringing equitable media coverage to women’s sports…..TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison is available to do interviews on talk shows across the nation to discuss the latest music video release by Gunhill Road (the perennial pop music ensemble in which he is a member) – an anthemic tribute to talk radio – which has been gathering tens of thousands of views and downloads around the globe. Harrison talks about the state of talk radio in 2025 and its continuing importance as a vital communications/cultural venue.  Harrison can be reached via email at info@talkers.com.  To view the video, please click HERE.

FOX News Media (FNM) will unveil a series of programming changes across FOX News Channel (FNC) and FOX Business Network (FBN), announced FNM CEO Suzanne Scott. Beginning on January 21, FOX & Friends Weekend co-host Will Cain will take over the 4 PM/ET weekday timeslot on FNC with “The Will Cain Show.” FOX News contributor Charlie Hurt will replace Cain as co-host of “FOX & Friends Weekend” beginning January 18. “The Fox Report” and “The Big Weekend Show” will both expand to two hours on Saturdays and Sundays also starting on January 18. Additionally, FBN’s Dagen McDowell will join “The Big Money Show” which will expand from 12:00 noon – 2:00 pm ET on weekdays beginning on January 27 while she also continues to co-host “The Bottom Line” (6:00 – 7:00 pm ET).  In making the announcement, Scott said, “As the media landscape continues to evolve, we are always looking to innovate our programming lineup to meet the needs of our viewers, and we are confident the new lineup will best position FOX News Media for the future. Will Cain brings years of experience to the 4:00 pm hour as an accomplished broadcaster and a lawyer and we look forward to adding his insights to what will no doubt be another historic news cycle ahead this year.”

Cain added, “It has been an honor to wake up with America these past four years and I am thrilled to apply my background in news, law, entertainment and business to help our viewers better understand the headlines through thought-provoking content and analysis every weekday afternoon.”

Featuring conversations with newsmakers from across politics, business, culture and sports, The Will Cain Show will offer a comprehensive look at the news of the day in a signature podcast style. His last appearance on FOX & Friends Weekend will be on January 18th, following which Hurt will take over the role as co-host, joining Rachel Campos-Duffy on the curvy couch each weekend. In addition to his role as a FOX News contributor, Hurt currently serves as the opinion editor of The Washington Times. He will relinquish that position upon the start of his new role.

Beginning on January 18, “The FOX Report” anchored by Jon Scott will move to 3:00 pm ET expanding to two hours until 5:00 pm ET on Saturdays and Sundays while “The Big Weekend Show” which also airs on Saturdays and Sundays will expand to two hours from 6:00 – 8:00 pm ET beginning on the same day. Meanwhile, FOX News Live will continue airing from 10 AM-12 PM/ET on Saturdays featuring a rotating substitute anchor until a permanent replacement is named and the one-hour “Journal Editorial Report” will move to 2:00 pm ET on Saturdays.

On FBN, McDowell will join “The Big Money Show” which will expand to two hours from 12:00 noon -2:00 pm ET starting on January 27 where she will break down market news alongside co-hosts Taylor Riggs, Jackie DeAngelis, and Brian Brenberg.

As Michael Harrison wrote in TALKERS at the start of the new year’s first full week (1/6), “Each year at this time, I am invariably asked by broadcasters, reporters, and friends, ‘What do you think we’ll be talking about in the new year ahead?’  And each year I give the same answer:  THE UNEXPECTED.”

Here we go again. Within what seems like mere moments after the optimistic news broke that California was again gaining population after years of depletion, the apocalyptic wildfires that sprung out of heavy winds and dry conditions in the Pacific Palisades pounced upon L.A. County and circled its metro like a raging beast from hell – thrusting local radio into its familiar role as a vital informational first responder.  Add to that, radio’s invaluable service as an emotional support provider for a confused and terrified public is on display.  TALKERS is receiving reports from Southern California and points throughout the Golden State that radio is, indeed, rising to the occasion with many all-news, talk and public radio outlets taking a wall-to-wall, “all hands-on deck” personnel policy both in studio and remote scenarios. This is especially important in areas where the power has gone out and car or battery-driven radios provide instant access to weather, traffic and other vital facts. The fires have also set off figurative sparks in terms of political finger pointing and emotional venting regarding budgets, preparedness, and general political accountability. Major industries – housing, entertainment, sports, healthcare and public safety – are being shaken to the core. No venue performs the service of unpacking all that on a mass level better than live, local, spoken word radio.

Broadcasters Foundation to the Rescue. As the wildfires continue to rage and spread in the Los Angeles area, the Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA) wants to remind broadcasters in Southern California that Emergency Grants are available for those who qualify.  “We have set aside Emergency Grant Dollars to provide financial assistance to broadcasters in LA who are in need,” stated Tim McCarthy, president of the Broadcasters Foundation.

The BFOA Emergency Grant Application Process is streamlined to deliver financial aid to those in need as speedily as possible, usually within weeks.  Historically, it can take a week or more for victims of disasters like these wildfires to apply because their lives have been upended and they may not have immediate access to the internet, etc. For those broadcasters, the BFOA has set up an emergency phone number at 212-373-8250. To apply directly on line, broadcasters may go to www.broadcastersfoundation.org

The top story yesterday (1/8) on news/talk radio and related media venues was the devastating Los Angeles wildfires. In addition to prompting around the clock public safety information, the natural disaster stirred up emotional conversation about political accountability and speculation about what lies ahead in terms of the economy, housing, the environment, and SoCal-based industries including entertainment, tourism, and sports.  That was followed by heated analysis of the changes at Meta and Facebook regarding censorship and fact checking.  Discussion also continued about the many facets of the presidential transition currently underway, the state of Trump’s dangling legal issues, and U.S. foreign relations per the Middle East and Eastern Europe according to the ongoing research of TALKERS.

FOX Sports Radio Features Live Broadcast from Orange Bowl.  FOX Sports Radio’s “Two Pros and Cup of Joe” with (pictured above l-r) Brady Quinn, LaVar Arrington and Jonas Knox will broadcast live from Fort Lauderdale, beginning this morning (1/8), as part of the network’s coverage of the Orange Bowl featuring a matchup between Quinn’s alma mater Notre Dame and Arrington’s alma mater Penn State tomorrow (1/9). With a spot in the National Championship on the line for the Fighting Irish and Nittany Lions, “Two Pros and a Cup of Joe” will bring all the excitement before, during and after the game as the show broadcasts live from 6:00 am – 9:00 am ET at Le Meridien Dania Beach, the media hotel for the game, from January 8 – 10, 2025.  “Two Pros and a Cup of Joe” featuring Quinn – former Notre Dame Quarterback who set 36 single-season and career records, and was a first-round draft pick; LaVar Arrington – College Football Hall of Famer, three-time Pro Bowl Linebacker and No. 2 overall draft pick; and sports radio veteran Jonas Knox is available nationwide on more than 380 stations, in addition to FOX Sports Radio’s channel on iHeartRadio and www.FOXSportsRadio.com.

iHeartMedia and the National Football League Extend Their Multi-Year NFL Podcast Network Partnership. iHeartMedia, the  and the National Football League (NFL) today (1/8) announced an extension to the exclusive partnership that first launched the NFL Podcast Network in 2021. As part of the deal, new original podcasts and NFL Club shows will debut each year, and existing favorites will continue to be available on the NFL Podcast Network. Additionally, iHeart will identify other existing podcasts to join the NFL Podcast Network during the deal, growing the partnership’s reach and scale.  “The NFL Podcast Network continues to grow and capture new audiences, and we’re thrilled to strengthen the successful partnership between iHeart and the NFL with new shows and the addition of more team podcasts,” said Will Pearson, president of iHeartPodcasts. “Our new extended deal is guaranteed to bring fans closer to the game, players and teams they love and keep listeners up to date on the insider information they want to hear.” “We are incredibly excited to continue our partnership with iHeartMedia,” said Brent Lawton, NFL VP of business development and strategic investments. “Since its launch in 2021, the NFL Podcast Network has delivered NFL fans best-in-class storytelling and podcast content, and we look forward to developing new podcasts and more content with iHeart.” The first new show for 2025,“Lots To Say with Bobby Bones and Matt Cassel,” will pair iHeart’s nationally syndicated personality Bobby Bones with former Pro Bowl NFL quarterback Matt Cassel as they talk football, music, current events and their personal lives. Based in Nashville, the hosts will be joined in the studio by celebrity friends as they discuss the hottest topics in football and beyond. Upcoming guests will include music sensations Tim McGraw and Parker McCollum; NFL greats Jared Allen and Boomer Esiason; and more.

Mark Walters’ Syndicated “Armed American Radio” Shows Continue Growth. The long-running, liberty-based syndicated show “ArmedAmericanRadio” and its sister property “AARDailyDefense,” owned and hosted by one of the nation’s leading Second Amendment advocates, Mark Walters, continues to add affiliates.  Walters kicks off 2025 on a roll with new affiliates: KLID-AM, Poplar Bluff, MO; WBNR, Beacon, NY; WKDP-AM Corbin/Lexington, KY; WKDP-FM, Corbin/Lexington KY; KOMY-AM, Santa Cruz, CA; WLNA-AM, Peekskill, NY; WAJZ-FM, Albany, NY; and WGHQ-AM, Poughkeepsie, NY.  Walters, among his many civic activities, is on the Board of Directors of the Citizens Committee for the Right to Keep and Bear Arms.

Billy Bush announced (1/6) the launch of his new live talk show, “Hot Mics with Billy Bush” on TuneIn. The show is described as featuring “in-depth conversations on today’s hot mic topics, with a lineup of A-list stars, politicians both loathed and loved but shaping our world today, tastemakers, sports icons and tech barons” with full video available on  YouTube.com/@HotMicsWithBillyBush.  “Hot Mics with Billy Bush” is part of TuneIn’s growing catalog of co-branded original content. According to TuneIn, “Bush has 24 years of experience in entertainment and a record to set straight, which he will do on day one.”  The show will drop twice weekly live at 5:00 pm ET on Mondays and Wednesdays.  “Hot Mics with Billy Bush” debuts Monday, January 13, with a “super-hot, no-holds-barred explanation of how this show got its name,” (y’all remember the “locker room talk” incident?) and later in the week, on Wednesday, the show welcomes its first guest, Megyn Kelly. “Every week, I’ll be diving deep into culture-shaping moments, offering listeners a raw, unfiltered take on today’s biggest stories. Oh, and the only person that can cancel me is me,” said Billy reflecting on what he perceives as his newfound freedom.

The John Fredericks Media Network, which lays claim to be the largest independently owned and operated news-talk-sports network in America, has expanded its operations in West Virginia. Fredericks radio company, Disruptor Radio, LLC has entered into an Asset Purchase Agreement (APA) with LHTC-Radio Division to acquire it’s nine stations in West Virginia, which include:

• WGYE 102.7 FM / 95.3 FM – Morgantown WV, Mannington WV

• WMMN AM 920 / 95.7 FM – Fairmont WV, North Central WV, Wheeling WV

• WHTI 105.7 FM – Clarksburg WV

• WZST 100.9 FM – Morgantown WV

• WBKE AM 1490 / 98.3 FM – Morgantown WV, Fairmont WV, Grafton WV

• WRLF 94.3 FM – Morgantown WV, North Central WV, Fairmont WV

Disruptor Radio will take over operational control of the above stations effective today (1/6) through a License Management Agreement (LMA) with LHTC-Radio division until the sale formally closes. Both the LMA and APA have been filed with the FCC and is a matter of public record. The URL is WVTheTorch.com and a radio APP is available. The addition of the West Virginia radio cluster gives Fredericks’ company a total of 22 signals from West Virginia to Georgia.  The new West Virginia stations will air the JFRN lineup of populist proprietary hosts and sports. The full lineup can be found at WVTheTorch.com.

WVTheTorch.com and WZST 100.9 FM will remain the flagship radio network for WVU Athletics, which airs WVU Mountaineer football, men’s basketball, women’s basketball, and baseball on all WV channels except WGYE and WHTI. WVTheTorch.com and its affiliated network carries the NFL’s Pittsburgh Steelers and the Pittsburgh Penguins of the NHL.

Fredericks tells TALKERS, “This West Virginia opportunity is key to our growth plan, as it dovetails nicely with our Pittsburgh footprint and reaches a very pro-populist, pro America First and pro-Trump area of America. West Virginian’s voted overwhelmingly -over 70 percent- for President-elect Donald Trump, who also carried Morgantown and the county. We are excited about offering listeners in West Virginia a choice from the stale, woke and warmed over pablum served up every day by the corporatists and conservative Inc. bunch that regurgitates FOX and RINO RNC talking points of the day.” Fredericks, whose show airs weekdays 6:00 am-10:00 am, Fredericks lives in Pittsburgh, PA and will be covering the White House live from Washington, D.C. most weekdays.

Anne Fredericks, Disruptor Radio’s CEO is credited as the ultimate architect of the company’s growth and acquisition strategy.  She tells TALKERS, “We’ve built a burgeoning national legion of devout and dedicated listeners across the country who yearn for the truth and a commonsense approach. We don’t rely on click bait for ad revenue and this approach has forged an unshakable bond with our audience.” She adds, “As a result, we are singularly focused on advertiser ROI, over-serving our customers, and a commitment to their economic success and enduring engagement.”

New York Festivals Radio and TV & Film Awards announce a new partnership with JusticeAid, a nonprofit organization dedicated to using art and music to raise awareness about civil rights challenges and inspire action for social justice.Together, they will launch the inaugural JusticeAid Award, a new honor that will recognize the highest-scoring entry across all Social Justice categories in the NYF TV & Film and Radio competitions.

The JusticeAid Award will be presented to the entry that demonstrates outstanding storytelling in addressing critical social justice issues. The winner will be determined by the esteemed NYF TV & Film Awards and Radio Awards Grand Juries, who will evaluate entries across a range of categories.

Categories within TV & Film Awards include News Program, News Report/Feature, Sports, Documentary, Entertainment Program, Entertainment Special, Promo, Streaming, Student, and Corporate Image.NYF Radio Categories eligible for the award include News Program, News Report/Feature, Documentary, Entertainment, Promo, Digital, Podcast, and Student.

“With the JusticeAid Award, NYF shines a spotlight on the Social Justice categories across all genres and platforms encompassing Journalism and Entertainment categories alike. These stories show how individual actions can change the world and the ability of the human spirit to triumph over adversity,” states Rose Anderson, EVP/executive director of New York Festivals Radio and TV & Film Awards.

The first annual JusticeAid Award will be presented at the 2025 Storytellers Gala, a virtual event in the Spring 2025 celebrating global excellence in storytelling. In 2024, over 180 award-winning teams worldwide shared their acceptances, while industry leaders spotlighted their creative journeys in special segments. Additionally, the JusticeAid Award-winning submission will be honored at the JusticeAid Concert in May 2025 in New York City, showcasing the transformative power of music and the arts to raise awareness for civil rights and inspire positive change.

The New York Festivals TV & Film and Radio Awards competitions receive entries from over 50 countries.  Members of the Grand Jury panels vote to determine the Shortlists and final standings for Tower Trophies. The 2025 Storytellers Gala will honor trophy winners of both competitions in the spring.

The official deadline to enter the 2025 New York Festivals TV & Film Awards is December 31, 2024. For more information on the 2025 TV & Film Awards visit: HERE.

The official deadline to enter the 2025 Radio Awards is January 31, 2025. For more information on the 2025 Radio Awards visit: HERE.

Audacy has received the Travis Manion Foundation (TMF) Award, highlighting the company’s commitment to serving the military community. This award is presented to organizations that go above and beyond to support fallen heroes, veterans, and military families.  Audacy, led by the Philadelphia team and 1210 WPHT has been a long-time supporter of TMF, raising money and awareness for the organization’s mission. TMF is the beneficiary of WPHT’s annual “Talk Radio 1210 Radiothon” and Sports Radio 94WIP’s annual “WIP Birds at the Bye” event.  The company was honored (12/12) at TMF’s 2024 “If Not Me, Then Who…” Gala. Audacy CEO/president David Field accepted the award and offered remarks: “On behalf of my colleagues at Audacy, we are humbled to receive this recognition. We admire and salute the Foundation for its extraordinary work making a meaningful, often life-changing impact on the lives of veterans, the families of fallen heroes, and young people finding their way in our increasingly challenging world,” said Field. “TMF makes an enormous difference through its various programs that elevate lives, foster strong character and leadership and add meaning, purpose, and comfort. We hope to serve TMF as a loyal partner for many years to come.” The Travis Manion Foundation is a non-profit organization that empowers veterans and families of fallen heroes to develop character in future generations. TMF offers a variety of programs that help veterans and families of fallen heroes to heal, grow, and serve others. The inspiration for the foundation comes from 1st Lt Travis Manion, USMC, who made the ultimate sacrifice for the safety of his patrol in 2007. TMF carries on the legacy of selfless service and leadership embodied by Travis and all those who have served or continue to serve our nation.  Pictured above: members of Audacy Philadelphia at TMF’s 2024 “If Not Me, Then Who…” Gala.

Rich Eisen Will Replace Jim Rome in the 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm ET Time Slot on the Radio on Infinity Sports Network in Early 2025.According to the New York Post, “The Jim Rome Show” – nicknamed “The Jungle” – will be moving to the 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm ET slot and be independently syndicated by Westwood One. Rome hinted at the news when he teased a big show announcement for Monday in a post on X over the weekend. Infinity is a partnership between Audacy and Westwood One. Rich Eisen’s show can also be found on Roku and every relevant podcast platform, with highlights additionally posted on YouTube and through a Yahoo Sports portal. Eisen was previously a part of iHeart’s Fox Sports Radio lineup, and since exiting that network in 2020 he’s been syndicated by Westwood One.The rest of the Infinity lineup includes shows hosted by Maggie Gray and Andrew Perloff, Bill Reiter and Zach Gelb. To read the entire New York Post story, please click HERE.

Kicking off 2025, Stephanie Miller’s Live “Sexy Liberal Show” Books January Date at Warner Theater in DC. Progressive talk radio legend Stephanie Miller and her long-running, successful live review, “The Sexy Liberal Show,” have booked an upcoming appearance on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at the historic Warner Theater in Washington, DC.  In addition to Miller, the program features regulars, John Fugelsang, Hal Sparks, and Frangela (Francis Callier and Angela V. Shelton). The show’s producers tell TALKERS, this evolving live road show gives Miller fans (“Steph Heads”) the opportunity “to rally the resistance, laugh through the chaos, and gear up for the fight ahead.” As is customary, the show will also feature soon-to-be-announced special guests.  For those who cannot make it in person to the show, it will be available via pay-per-view.   For more information, please click HERE.

iHeartMedia San Diego’s eight music and talk radio stations participated in the seventh annual “iHeart Rady Children’s Giveathon” in partnership with Rady Children’s Hospital-San Diego this week (12/11-12).  These include talkers Newsradio 600 KOGO, San Diego Sports 760, and The Patriot AM 1360.  The stations broadcasted live from their studios each day of the Giveathon between 6 am – 6 pm. During the broadcasts, station personalities interviewed former patients, physicians and the parents and families of patients currently being treated at the hospital, who shared their stories and experiences with station listeners.  Over the course of the two-day Giveathon, $437,264 in donations was raised by listeners who made their contributions via phone, text and an online portal. Many listener donations were matched by local businesses, families and individuals. “The generosity of our listeners will help ensure that every child gets the best care possible, right here in our community,” Noreen Ippolito, market president for iHeartMedia San Diego tells TALKERS. Donations made to Rady Children’s Hospital help fund lifesaving technology and research, provide a safety net for children with little or no private medical insurance and create a healing environment for patients and their families.

Atlanta Hawks and Audacy today (12/13) Extend Their Multi-Year Relationship to Continue Making Sports Radio 92.9 The Game (WZGC-FM) the flagship station of the Atlanta Hawks Radio Network. As part of this agreement, all 82 Hawks NBA games can be heard throughout Georgia on the Atlanta Hawks Radio Network, which consists of affiliate stations in multiple markets and reach millions of listeners throughout the season.  Atlanta Sports Hall of Famer and Georgia Radio Hall of Famer Steve Holman, also known as the Voice of the Hawks, is in his 40th season and has never missed a Hawks’ regular season or playoff radio broadcast. Holman has totaled more than 3,000 consecutive games. Joining him on the broadcast is station brand manager Mike Conti, who has been with the Hawks Radio Network as a pregame, halftime and postgame host, and as a game commentator, since 2014. “We’ve taken great pride in seeing the growth and success of Sports Radio 92.9 The Game as the flagship station of the Atlanta Hawks Radio Network since its inception,” said Hawks’ president of business enterprise and chief commercial officer Andrew Saltzman. “We are excited that our growing fanbase will continue to enjoy Hawks basketball game coverage on The Game along with compelling sports talk every day from their line-up with the most talented hosts in the business.”  “We are proud to continue our long-standing relationship with the Atlanta Hawks,” said Rick Caffey, SVP/MM of Audacy Atlanta. “With our partnership now in its second decade, we look forward to continuing our comprehensive Hawks coverage on Sports Radio 92.9 The Game, V103, and worldwide on the Audacy app.”

Something Happenin’ Here!  The remarkable ratings rise, and buzz being created by Walter M Sterling‘s “Sterling Every Damn Night” (10:00 pm – 1:00 am) on Audacy’s WPHT, Philadelphia is worthy of the entire talk radio industry’s attention.  When he started in May, the time period was 18th with a 2.8 Total Adults in Nielsen. In his first month and first hour, the show got a 7.2, # 4. Now the November numbers are a 9.2, total adults, number 2 in Philadelphia.  This is AM only.  No FM.  All this reflects over the air listenership, no stream numbers included.  And to the best of our knowledge, there has been no marketing campaign attached to the success. It’s been organic.  Sterling (A.K.A. legendary consultant Walter Sabo) has taken quite an original approach to news/talk radio in performing the show – mixing a blend of old-time radio sounders and techniques with idiosyncratic, unexpected takes on everyday topics that impact people’s daily lives.  He is clever, funny, surprising and extremely irreverant… And it’s working big time.  A word to the wise: check it out. Don’t let this spark go unfanned.

Triton Digital®, the global technology and services provider to the digital audio, podcast, and broadcast radio industries, announced today (12/12) the release of its November 2024 reporting period (November 4, 2024 – December 1, 2024), U.S. Podcast Ranker as measured by Triton’s Podcast Metrics measurement service.

iHeart Audience Network earned the #1 spot again on the Top Sales Networks Report for the month of November, with 66.0M Average Weekly Downloads and 19.4M Average Weekly Users. NPR came in again at #2 with 25.8M Average Weekly Downloads and 6.7M Average Weekly Users, followed by Wondery again at #3 with 19.2M Average Weekly Downloads and 7.1M Average Weekly Users.

For this reporting period, the top three podcasts based on downloads included “NPR News Now” (NPR) again at #1, “Up First” (NPR) again at #2, and “The Dan Bongino Show” (Cumulus Podcast Network) again at #3.

For listeners, the top three podcasts included “NPR News Now“ (NPR) again at #1, “Up First” (NPR) again at #2, and “The Dan Bongino Show” (Cumulus Podcast Network) climbing to #3.

There were several debuts for the month of November including “Someone Knows Something” (CBC/Radio-Canada) for both downloads and listeners.

“The Sports Junkies” (Audacy Podcast Network), “It’s Been a Minute With Sam Sanders” (NPR), “The Chris Plante Show” (Cumulus Podcast Network), “The Ben Ferguson Podcast” (iHeart Audience Network) and more debuted for downloads.

“Brooke and Jeffrey: Second Date Update” (iHeart Audience Network), “Against The Odds” (Wondery) and more debuted for listeners.

Any sales network or publisher with an audience in the United States is eligible to participate in the U.S. Podcast Report. To learn more, contact: solutions@tritondigital.com.

Cumulus Media announced yesterday (12/5) that KCMO 95.7 FM and 710 AM, has added longtime Kansas City broadcaster Kevin Kietzman to the station’s weekday programming lineup with the launch of his new midday show, “Kevin Kietzman Uncanceled.” The program debuted this week and airs on KCMO Monday through Friday from 10:00 am-11:00 am.  Kietzman is a well-known voice in the Midwest, having hosted his highly successful sports/talk radio show in Kansas City for over two decades. He is currently the host of the “Kevin Kietzman Has Issues” podcast, covering Kansas City news, sports, and politics.  Donna Baker, regional VP/MM, Cumulus Kansas City, tells TALKERS, “Under Pete’s leadership, KCMO Talk Radio is one of the fastest growing stations in the Midwest. Kevin’s passion and commitment to his craft make him the perfect fit for the KCMO Talk Radio audience and our client partners.” Pete Mundo, KCMO PD and morning show host, commented: “During my years in Kansas City, we have delivered on our promise, ‘If it’s happening IN KCMO, it’s ON KCMO.’ There are few who have entertained and informed Kansas City listeners for over two decades like Kevin Kietzman. Kevin’s ability to engage fans, whether the topic of today is our Championship sports teams, the local news landscape, national politics, or the pop culture world, make him the ideal addition to KCMO Talk Radio.”  Kevin Kietzman said: “It’s great to be back on radio but even better to be a part of something as exciting as KCMO Talk Radio, now on 95.7 FM. I’ve known Pete Mundo for years and absolutely nobody in KC media works harder or is more dedicated to serving listeners than Pete and the management team at Cumulus Media. It’s a sweet spot to follow his popular morning show where Kansas City listens every day to learn what’s going on throughout Missouri and Kansas.”  Kietzman added: “These are historic times. Americans have spoken loudly that we are a free speech society, we have the most popular sports team in the world in our city, and I can’t wait to be back on air to talk about it all. I look forward to hearing from so many of you that have listened throughout the years. Let’s go!”

Newsmax launched on DIRECTV Latin America’s leading media technology company in connectivity and entertainment in the region – one recognized for its multi-platform experience.  The distribution move comes as millions around the globe are tracking news about the recent presidential election and the upcoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump.

Newsmax, now one of the leading cable news channels in the United States, began broadcasting live in early November on DGO, DIRECTV Latin America’s streaming and live TV platform.  “The addition of Newsmax to our lineup is part of the ongoing actions that DIRECTV Latin America is carrying out to offer the best content and consolidates our proposal, which is known for having the best in news, sports and entertainment,” said Leo Flores, VP of Own Content at Vrio Corp. “In addition, the user experience is superior because DGO’s streaming platform addresses new consumer trends and offers the possibility of viewing content from any mobile device,” Flores added.  DGO is available at no additional cost to DIRECTV subscribers in Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Uruguay. Additionally, non-DIRECTV customers will also be able to access DGO through the multiple plans available. This move further expands Newsmax’s global presence as the channel now streams to DIRECTV Latin America’s Spanish-language streaming service subscribers using advanced AI-powered dubbing and subtitles, helping it efficiently scale global business growth and live localizations.  “Latin America is the second fastest-growing streaming market globally and DIRECTV Latin America is one of the largest multichannel players in the region,” Andy Biggers, senior vice president of content distribution of Newsmax, tells TALKERS. “We’re excited Newsmax is now available to DIRECTV and DGO viewers to get a U.S. perspective on global issues, especially those affecting Latin American interests,” he said.  Newsmax is the U.S.’s fourth highest-rated cable news channel and a recent Reuters Institute study found that Newsmax is one of the top 12 news brands in the country.  The channel has enjoyed tremendous 2024 ratings growth and is available in nearly 60 million U.S. pay TV homes through every major provider, including DirecTV, Dish, Comcast, Verizon, Optimum (Altice), Verizon, Spectrum and YouTube TV.

FOX News Channel and Premiere Networks talk superstar Sean Hannity will host a new long-form interview show for FOX Nation entitled, “Sean” premiering today (12/3) on the platform, announced Lauren Petterson, its president. The new series will feature in-depth sit-down interviews with a variety of guests spanning the world of sports, entertainment, and politics. Pictured above: the episode one kick-off with iconic actor, writer and director Sylvester Stallone alongside his wife, entrepreneur, and model Jennifer Flavin Stallone. In making the announcement, Petterson said, “Sean’s signature political commentary has advanced the cultural conversation while connecting with the FOX News Media audience for more than 28 years. FOX Nation subscribers will have the opportunity to see Sean in a new setting as he conducts long-form interviews with newsmakers and celebrities, delving deep into their life journeys and the challenges and successes they have had along the way.”  Hannity added, “Throughout the course of my career, I’ve had the honor of meeting the world’s most interesting people. It is often the struggles and obstacles they have overcome that make them most captivating. I look forward to sharing these conversations with FOX Nation viewers.”  Featuring a new episode each month, “Sean” captures candid conversations that dive deep into the lives, passions and perspectives of the country’s most interesting people while providing behind-the-scenes stories and unfiltered discussions about the moments that shaped their lives. Following this week’s debut, the second episode will feature a sit-down with Stephen A. Smith, the firebrand commentator and host of ESPN’s “First Take” and podcast “The Stephen A. Smith Show.” In episode three, Hannity will interview celebrity fitness trainer and media personality Jillian Michaels. Additional guests will be announced at a later date.

As the longest-running primetime cable news host in history, Hannity has been known for his provocative style and passionate connection with his audience over the course of his 28 years at FNC. Each night, his primetime program features a signature monologue where he breaks down trending topics of the day, followed by headline-generating interviews. Garnering the highest viewership among cable news in his timeslot, Hannity has averaged nearly 3 million viewers year-to-date, routinely placing as one of the top cable shows overall. Ranked by TALKERS at number one on its “Heavy Hundred” list of the 100 Most Important Radio Talk Show Hosts in America, Hannity’s radio show is now carried on more than 730 stations.

This Thursday, December 5th, Hannity will serve as the emcee of FOX Nation’s signature Patriot Awards, a ceremony which honors and recognizes America’s finest patriots, including military veterans, first responders and other inspirational everyday heroes.

Pew Study:  Newsmax among Top U.S. News Brands.   The ratings competition for eyeballs and eardrums between multi-platform news content providers has grown increasingly fierce as burgeoning interest in politics – especially during this remarkably heated 2024 election cycle – has driven huge audiences to information venues seeking the latest data and ideological affirmation. The correlation between MSNBC’s notable ratings declines after the “Morning Joe” visit to Mar-a-Lago illustrated the sensitivity of branding and audience expectations within this volatile arena.  So, what media outlets did Americans turn to for political news during the heated 2024 presidential election?  Pew Research did some digging to find out and Newsmax has earned bragging rights for being among the top U.S. news brands for Americans seeking political news. The Pew survey for September of 2024 asked close to 10,000 Americans: “What news source do you turn to most often for political news?”  The question was open ended — with Pew giving no possible responses as respondents gave their own answers.  The Pew Study found Newsmax ranked among the top news outlets and networks and tied with media giants X (formerly Twitter) and YouTube — as respondents’ go-to source for citizens seeking political news. Newsmax even ranked ahead of the Associated Press and local news, and was just one percentage point behind NBC, CBS, MSNBC, and The New York Times.  Major established news outlets FOX News, CNN, and ABC News led the pack. “Multiple studies continue to show Newsmax is a major news player, and we are continuing to rise,” Newsmax Inc. CEO Chris Ruddy tells TALKERS. “The credit belongs to our team here and our viewers who are tired of old media and want the quality journalism we’re providing.” The Pew study confirms a recent Reuters Institute study that found Newsmax was one of the top 12 U.S. news brands for Americans.  The Reuters study found 8% of Americans — about 25 million Americans — turn to Newsmax on cable TV for their news at least weekly.  Starting as a conservative website, Newsmax was launched as an entrepreneurial initiative in 1998 by then-independent journalist Ruddy and expanded to include a TV network in 2014 .  Today, Newsmax estimates it reaches more than 40 million Americans through its television channels, online websites, and social media. The company has raised over $100 million for its Preferred Share Offering in its pre-IPO plan and expects to close soon.

Bloomberg Audio Renews Multi-Year Deal With Audacy.  Radio syndication firm, Key Networks and Bloomberg Audio, a leading provider of radio business news in the U.S., announce that Bloomberg Audio and Audacy have renewed their agreement to deliver Bloomberg Audio business and consumer news programming across the majority of Audacy’s 26 all-news and news talk stations. Audacy owns and operates many of the most influential news and news talk stations in America, including 92.3 FM and 1010 WINS in New York, News KNX-FM 97.1 and 1070 AM News Radio (KNX-AM/FM) in Los Angeles, WBBM Newsradio (WBBM-AM/WCFS-FM) in Chicago, and more. Bloomberg Audio has been Audacy’s primary business and consumer news provider for several years. Under the new multi-year agreement, Bloomberg Audio will continue to provide Audacy stations with access to its world-class radio news content, including live, customized reports, “Bloomberg Money Minutes,” and specialty features including: “Bloomberg Business of Sports,” “Bloomberg Business of Entertainment,” “Green Report,” “Small Business Report,” “Real Estate Report,” and more.  “We’re thrilled to extend our partnership with Bloomberg Radio, a trusted leader in business news, to continue delivering top-tier, timely financial and consumer content to our listeners,” said Jeff Sottolano, chief programming officer, Audacy. “This collaboration strengthens our commitment to providing unparalleled business news coverage across our all-news and news talk stations, ensuring our audiences have access to the insights and information they need.”

Rumble Will Host the Uncensored Fourth Season of “Surviving Barstool.” Rumble, the high-growth video platform and cloud services provider, announced that the much-anticipated fourth season of “Surviving Barstool” will move to Rumble, unedited and uncensored, beginning today (12/2). Rumble users and Barstool fans can subscribe to the Barstool Sports Rumble channel here and tune in to watch this season here. YouTube will only carry the censored version of “Surviving Barstool.” “Surviving Barstool” follows 24 of the biggest Barstool employees competing against each other for a $250,000 prize while trapped in the office. The final winner will be decided by the employees who were voted out along the way.

RNC Chair Michael Whatley Credits WBT Listeners with Delivering NC to Trump.  WBT, Charlotte afternoon drive star Brett Winterble was joined by Republican National Committee chairman, Michael Whatley, yesterday (11/25) to talk about the GOP’s election victories.  During the conversation in which Whatley discussed the election’s immediate impact on issues ranging from wars in the Middle East and Central Europe to immigration and the economy, Whatley credited Radio One’s WBT listeners with helping secure the victory for Donald Trump in North Carolina.  Winterble is a rising star in the talk radio industry currently ranked at # 41 on the 2024 TALKERS “Heavy Hundred” list of the 100 Most Important Radio Talk Show Hosts in America.  To listen to the conversation between Winterble and Whatley please click here.

The Performance Racing Network (PRN) Taps Brad Gillie to Assume Role of Lead Anchor Alongside Mark Garrow beginning with the 2025 NASCAR season. Gillie will be replacing longtime lead anchor Doug Rice who has retired after a distinguished 36-year career left a void few could fill. “The obvious choice to succeed me is Brad Gillie,” Rice tells TALKERS. “He has been an integral part of our broadcast team for decades. He is an excellent broadcaster that our fans trust and are very familiar with, which I know will make this a smooth transition.”  Gillie has spent more than two decades working in motorsports. His career started in 1998 at Texas Motor Speedway where he spent 16 years in a variety of positions.  In 2006, Gillie began broadcasting live NASCAR events with PRN, where he could be heard in any broadcast position. “I am truly grateful to PRN and Speedway Motor Sports for the opportunity to continue building on a long legacy of exceptional broadcasts,” said Gillie. “It is an honor to move up to the anchor chair and, along with our great team, deliver the excitement of NASCAR to our listeners and affiliate stations. I also want to thank Doug Rice for his friendship and mentorship. His values and commitment to excellence have made PRN an elite network recognized throughout the motorsports and radio industries.”

FOLLOW UP TO YESTERDAY’S STORY: 77WABC, New York Partners with AARP NY, Gristedes and D’Agostinos Supermarkets, and Catholic Charities for Annual 10,000-Turkey Giveaway During Holiday Season.  WABC Radio continues its self-stated “commitment to the community” with its annual 10,000-Turkey Giveaway, in collaboration with AARP New York, Gristedes and D’Agostinos Supermarkets, and Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of New York. The first 5,000 turkeys will be handed out before Thanksgiving, and the remaining 5,000 will be distributed before Christmas and the Holiday Season. The annual Turkey Giveaway kicked off at 10:00 am yesterday morning (11/25) when turkeys were handed out by John and Margo Catsimatidis, Curtis Sliwa, Sid Rosenberg, and other WABC Radio and New York celebrities from the 77WABC Trolley at St. Malachy’s Roman Catholic Church on W. 49th St. in New York City. “WABC Radio is an emergency broadcast station, a responsibility that extends to helping people in the greater New York City community year-round,” said John Catsimatidis, owner of Red Apple Media, 77WABC, and Gristedes and D’Agostinos Supermarkets. “Working with AARP New York and The Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of New York, we are bringing much-needed help, and hopefully joy, to those in our community who are in need and deserve happiness and a good meal for the Holiday Season.” Pictured above, John and Margo Catsimatidis participating in the holiday initiative.

Jon Hull Named Vice President Emeritus at Hope Media Group.  Hope Media Group (HMG) – a ministry of Christian-oriented media brands – announces Jon Hull as its new vice president emeritus, effective January 1, 2025.  In his new position, Hull will use his extensive experience to help lead and encourage the on-air donor acquisition teams, while also working with those teams that engage existing and lapsed donors off-air. In addition, Hull will join the leadership team that strategizes support drives and programming initiatives. “I’m so grateful Jon Hull will become Hope Media Group’s vice president emeritus. This title is one of distinction and honor – something Jon has more than earned in his 28 years of service to God through this ministry. I consider Jon a national treasure, as does the Christian radio industry,” shared Joe Paulo, CEO of Hope Media Group.

Canada’s Rogers Sports & Media Lays Off Dozens of Radio and Podcast Employees. According to an article by reporter Manuela Vega in the Toronto Star (11/19), Canadian broadcasting giant Rogers Sports & Media – reflecting major cutbacks taking place in the U.S. radio industry – has laid off more than two dozen employees in the company’s radio and podcasting divisions, citing declining revenue and challenges in advertising.  “With the radio industry continuing to feel the pressure of an uncertain advertising market, we made some difficult but necessary changes in our audio business impacting roles in several markets,” a Rogers Sports & Media spokesperson told the Star in a statement last night. The company said the job losses included a “handful” of journalists, as well as some managerial and administrative positions, but noted there would be no closures or terminations of stations, programming or podcasts. “We recognize and thank the team members who are leaving us for their dedication to our listeners and advertisers,” the statement read.  To read the complete article, please click here.

FOX Issues Statement About Duffy.  Former congressman Sean Duffy is now the second FOX TV personality to leave the network to pursue a role in the forthcoming Donald Trump administration following Pete Hegseth who was named as the president-elect’s choice to be Secretary of Defense.  Duffy – a FOX Business host – has received the Trump nod to be Secretary of Transportation.      Duffy is married to Rachel Campos-Duffy, who co-hosts “FOX & Friends Weekend” alongside – until last week – Pete Hegseth.  FOX put out the following statement per Duffy’s departure: “Sean Duffy provided valuable insights and analysis in co-hosting the FOX Business Network program, ‘The Bottom Line.’ As Duffy departs FOX News Media effective today (11/18), we wish him the best of luck in his return to Washington. Moving forward, ‘The Bottom Line‘ will continue with Dagen McDowell joined by rotating co-hosts.”

Raising Awareness All Year Long.  Nationally syndicated, Nevada-based TALKERS Heavy Hundred personality Dr. Daliah Wachs (pictured) never stops teaching and promoting health causes that lead to everything from prevention awareness to blood drives.  She tells TALKERS, “Where breast cancer awareness happens every October but education around this common disease needs to continue year-round.  Mammograms save lives and I’m grateful to Steinberg Diagnostic Medical Imaging for helping make my mammogram and ultrasound testing easy and painless.”  The Steinberg facility has been serving South Las Vegas outpatients for more than 30 years.

Cumulus Media today (11/18) announced strategic operating moves to its San Francisco market with stations including 104.5 FM/680 AM KNBR The Sports Leader; KSFO, The Bay Area’s Exclusive Hot Talk, and Classic Rocker KSAN-FM/107.7 The Bone.  Next week, KNBR begins the rollout of a new weekday programming line-up featuring new on-air talent teams in middays and afternoons. Joining the KNBR full-time roster is new midday co-host and producer Greg Silver, who will join popular midday host and San Francisco 49ers play-by-play announcer Greg Papa. The duo can be heard on KNBR Monday through Friday from 10:00 am-2:00 pm beginning today (11/18).  Adam Copeland, current KNBR afternoon co-host, welcomes a new on-air partner, Derek Papa. The new duo of Adam Copeland and Derek Papa can be heard weekdays from 2:00 pm-6:00 pm beginning Monday, December 2nd.  KNBR will also move its primary broadcasts from offices at 750 Battery Street, San Francisco, to its studios at San Francisco’s renowned Levi Stadium, home of KNBR and KSAN broadcast rights partner, the San Francisco 49ers. The move, accordg to Cumulus, will bring even more insight, access and “best-seat-in-the-house” opinions to Bay Area sports fans. Cumulus San Francisco further announced that KNBR sister station, KSFO, now heard at 560 AM, a 5,000-watt signal, will increase its signal and reach substantially with the news/talk station’s move to 810 AM, a 50,000-watt signal beginning today (11/18).  Larry Blumhagen, regional VP and market manager, Cumulus San Francisco, tells TALKERS, “We make these moves as Cumulus San Francisco is experiencing an exceptionally successful year. We continue to evolve as an organization committed to excellence and to growing for the future. With these changes, we say goodbye to some of our most storied and influential talent and we extend our gratitude for their countless contributions.”

The West Coast’s highly popular talk radio “power couple,” Robin Bertolucci and her husband Don Martin have stepped away from their longtime positions with iHeartMedia (11/8) – Bertolucci as program director of heritage giant KFI AM 640, Los Angeles and Martin as EVP of programming, iHeartMedia Sports (which includes FOX Sports Radio) and PD of sports talk AM 570 KLAC, Los Angeles.After nearly a quarter century of exemplary service in these positions, the ambiguous terms cited for the couple’s simultaneous departure do not mask the general industry observation that they were direct victims of the national radio cutbacks being affected by iHeartMedia as severe cost-cutting measures.  Chris Berry, iHeartMedia EVP of news, will assume the role as interim program director of both KFI and KLAC.

In the New York City market, the morning team of generalist Michael Riedel and sports talker Len Berman has met a similar fate at the legendary AM 710 WOR. Included in the cut – their show’s producer Terry Trahim, after more than 20 years of service to the station.

Multi-talented Scott Sands, iHM SVP of programming for the Ohio-West Virginia area and PD /afternoon host of WSPD, Toledo has also been let go.

Joe Pags impacted. In San Antonio, although he remains one of the most successful syndicated hosts in American talk radio with a rapidly growing roster of more than 170 stations coast to coast, Compass Media Networks star Joe “Pags” Pagliarulo‘s local highly-rated afternoon show of 19 years at his flagship WOAI (where he is a market legend) has been dropped from the lineup as a cost-cutting measure. Pags is one of talk radio’s most notable rising stars and will undoubtedly be okay – but his departure from WOAI is indicative of the wrecking ball nature of these types of budget-cutting measures.

There are more cutbacks being reported at iHM stations throughout the industry.

TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison states, “It is a dark moment in talk radio when the cutback ax falls on such good people who have devoted so much precious time, talent, and loyalty to their company, this industry and our professional community.  I’m in no position to tell companies how to run their businesses and protect their embattled assets in times of financial distress… but on a human level – not to mention in recognition of the fragility of this historic cultural scene to which we all contribute and hold an emotional stake – it’s downright heartbreaking.”

To see a recent interview with Joe Pags conducted by Michael Harrison on the video podcast “Up Close Far Out,” please click here.